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Slaughter Announces $1.5 Million in Federal Funding for Seven Area Fire Districts

July 31, 2017

Press Release

Award will be used to purchase advanced communications equipment

WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (NY-25) today announced that seven regional Fire Districts have received a $1.5 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) program. The award will be used to purchase new communications equipment that utilizes integrated advanced technology.

“I am proud to announce this major award for the brave firefighters who protect our community day in and day out. It’s essential that our fire departments have the equipment necessary to carry out their lifesaving work and that’s exactly what this award will make possible,” said Slaughter. “It will allow the districts to update their communications technology to help keep residents safe.”

The funding will primarily be used to purchase over 300 portable radios, equipped with speaker microphones and vehicle chargers. These will be assigned to all individuals with seated positions specific to fire suppression, rescue, or command.

FEMA’s AFG Program aims to improve the abilities of fire departments and emergency medical services (EMS) organizations to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of the first-responders. The AFG program will award approximately $310.5 million in competitive grants to fire departments, non-affiliated EMS organizations, and state fire training academies.